Six tourism entities awarded tourism expansion grants

Bismarck, N.D. – Six North Dakota tourism entities received 2014 Tourism Expansion Grants from the North Dakota Department of Commerce, Tourism Division. These grants support new or expanding tourism or recreation facilities or designated development areas by providing funding for infrastructure projects.

Created in 2007, Tourism Expansion Grants are matching grants requiring the sponsor to provide $1 for every $1 of grant money being requested. The total amount of grant dollars awarded for this program is $100,000 with individual grant amounts ranging from $5,000 to $24,000.

Funds may be used to build, remodel or expand tourism and recreation attractions, and historic sites. The attraction must have the ability to attract a visitor 50 miles one-way and retain a visitor for at least three hours.

As one of North Dakota’s leading industries, tourism attracts visitors to the state’s more than 640 attractions, 350 events and festivals, and 800 lodging options. In addition, more than 33,000 jobs in North Dakota are attributed to this robust industry.